Robert Nickelsberg was first contracted by Time Magazine to photograph the turmoil in Afghanistan beginning back in 1988, and his journey eventually led into several decades of photography and exploration into parts of the country that many of its own citizens have not been exposed to.

His book “Afghanistan - A Distant War” - a volume of 100 full-color photographs - features some of his work that has been published in Time, The New York Times, Newsweek, and The Wall Street Journal.

Now they can be seen at Queensborough Community College’s Art Gallery in Bayside for a special ongoing art exhibit through September 10.

"I believe this work is essential for students to see so they may have a visual record of an ancient land with deep roots in history, religion, art, music, and literature,” Nickelsberg said. “My photographs will help them ponder how all of this applies to what they are studying and planning for the future.”

Faustino Quintanilla, executive director of the QCC Art Gallery, said the display not only provides a timely exhibition for students and the public, but also helps put the conflict into perspective.

“I think it is most significant from the historical point of view because it coincides with a time when our president has decided to leave Afghanistan,” Quintanilla said. “This shows from the time when the Americans took over until today in a narration of what happened in those days.”

Lisa Scandaliato, assistant executive director of the QCC Art Gallery, said she is most thrilled that students at the college will have a new way to engage with the current events of the world.

“It's important they see the culture, since we just see our view of Afghanistan,” Scandaliatio said. “They’re seeing a whole other side to the story that we think is very important.”

The gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. except Wednesday and Thursday, when it is open until 7 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday the gallery is open until 4 p.m. Nickelsberg will visit the exhibit on September 10 from 12 to 2 p.m. for a lecture, presentation and open forum to discuss his work.